MADAM, Billions have been spent in preparation, millions more will be spent trying to prevent the disillusioned and disgruntled from venting their anger by having armed troops patrolling our streets. I refer of course to the Olympic Games.

More millions will be spent on fireworks, which will go up in smoke leaving a tangible result and when it is over the site at Hackney will slowly become a derelict wildnerness like other Olympic sites throughout the world. What about precious resources being spent on the real needs of the people? And come September we will be look back and say was it worth it?

Could the county have been more involved by having some of the competing locally?

Now this Government is tinkering with the NHS, no doubt to make cuts and save money, why don't they look at the Royal expenditure on health. I am sure they could save some money here.

Just recently Prince Phillip was highlighted in hospital with eye problems, was discharged from hospital, and the next day was out shooting. What does that say?

It is estimated that the Diamond Jubilee will cost the tax payer £100 million, the overseas tour cost being extra. Now as the Queen is one of the richest people in the world, if not the richest, why don'tthey insist she pays for this not forgetting the street parties and ballyhoo which will take place.

I don't wish the Queen any harm but should she die before the Games commence then a state funeral would just about finish the country off for good.

G Cowmeadow,

Ross